Astronomy February 2012

50 years of Americans in spaceBy Bill AndrewsSince John Glenn's orbital flight, we've visited the Moon, built space stations, and learned about our place in the universe.pg. 20

What are we doing in space?By Brian MayThe success of space travel in the future will depend on humans reining in their aggressive nature and pursuing science instead.pg. 26

Will we go back to the Moon?By Robert ZimmermanThe end of NASA’s Space Shuttle Program created doubt about future manned lunar missions. Now, private industries and international competition might be our best hope.pg. 32